Sonia hardsells achievements of Congress, hits out at Pak

SILVASSA: A combative Congress president on election mode said India would give a fitting reply to Pakistan if it plans any military adventure.

Addressing a rally of over one lakh people, Sonia said, ‘‘Our neighbour can’t break India’s unity. We will all fight anti-national forces.’’

Sonia chose to address her first rally in Silvassa in Dadra & Nagar Haveli which is strategically located between Maharashtra and Gujarat. Despite being surrounded by Gujarat which has a significant BJP presence, the party has never won a single seat in the panchayati elections here.

‘‘I appreciate the spirit of the people here, who have welcomed ‘outsiders’ from every part of India and given them employment. I am also impressed that this region has maintained its lush green forest cover, despite industries,’’ she said.

Sonia drew applause when she announced a Rs 150-cr funding from the Centre. ‘‘This region needs to progress and there is a huge potential in terms of tourism and industries. At the same time, we have passed the Forest Land Bill in Parliament protecting the interests of tribals,’’ she said, adding that funds would flow for constructing roads, drinking water and education.

‘‘We have reduced LPG, petrol and diesel prices. This has never been done before. The PM has been making efforts to ensure that every village in India gets electricity and every child gets better education,’’ she said.